Chef Nti

Multi-talented TV chef, MC, author and entrepreneur, Nthabiseng Nti Ramaboa

– aka Chef Nti celebrate, innovate and share South African flavours and culinary culture. Her personal brand, rooted in her heritage but global in its approach, is inspired by the authentic South African cooking she grew up with; her dishes bring a true reflection of her adventurous spirit and her love for homegrown flavours.

Spinach And Feta Croquettes Served With Ushatini Sauce

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked maize meal

• bunch of Swiss chard, washed and finely chopped

• ½ onion finely chopped

• 1 tsp crushed garlic

• ½ cup crumbled feta

• handful of maize meal, seasoned with salt and pepper for coating oil for frying salt and freshly ground pepper

Method

Cook the maize meal according to packet instructions till medium yet smooth consistency. Let it cool slightly.

In a pan heat oil, sauté garlic and onion till fragrant. In batches, wilt the spinach and season with salt and pepper and set aside to cool slightly.

3. Spoon a tablespoon of the cooked pap in your hand and flatten.

4. Place ½ teaspoon of the spinach mixture followed by the same quantity feta cheese and roll into a ball.

You should get about 16 to 20 medium size balls.

Roll the croquette in the seasoned maize meal and deep fry in hot oil till golden brown. Drain excess oil on a paper towel and serve warm with ushatini sauce. Enjoy!

Ushatini Tomato Relish

Ingredients

• 15 roma tomatoes

• 3 large onions

• 2 habanero chillis, seeds removed (optional)

• 3 whole orange peppers

• 3 garlic cloves

• 6 Tbs sherry vinegar

• olive oil for frying

Method

1. In a food processor blend all ingredients (except the sherry vinegar) together until smooth.

2. Add oil to a saucepan and keep at medium heat.

3. Add tomato mix into the hot pan, simmer on the stove at a low heat until all is cooked, about 5 minutes.

4. Season the relish, wait for the mixture to cool down.

5. Blend the mixture in the food processor again until a smooth, orange and velvety consistency with no lumps.

6. Return the tomato mix to the saucepan and simmer it on the stove again for 10 minutes and finish with sherry vinegar.

7. Enjoy with pasta, use as pizza base or as a dip for your favourite snack. It's so fresh you will enjoy it easily with anything.